Storm Watch: Governor Newsom declares state of emergency

Governor Gavin Newsom on Wednesday declared a state emergency for large parts of California, a move that will help free up state resources for response to areas that are the hardest hit by the severe storm expected to impact residents and businesses.

The emergency declaration authorizes the mobilization of the California National Guard to respond to local areas that are inundated with flooding and damage from heavy wind. It also allows CalTrans to request assistance from federal transportation agencies for highway repairs and other infrastructure-related response.

The State Operations Center, which is connected to the Office of Emergency Services, has been activated to its highest level, the governor’s office said in a statement on Wednesday.

“California is mobilizing to keep people safe from the impacts of the incoming storm,” Newsom said. “This state of emergency will allow the state to respond quickly as the storm develops, and support local offices in their ongoing response.”

The worst of the storm is expected to cross through Northern California between Wednesday afternoon and early Thursday morning, bringing heavy periods of rain and sustained wind between 25 miles per hour and 35 miles per hour. At times, the wind could reach as high as 60 miles per hour.